The loss by LA guaranteed that the Indians can fall no lower than the No. 2 wildcard spot, even if they lose all 15 of their remaining games.

That seems unlikely to happen, as the Indians currently boast the longest winning streak in American League history, hold a 2.5-game lead over the Astros for the top spot in the AL playoffs, and are eyeing the LA Dodgers for baseball's best record.

The earliest the Tribe can clinch a division title would be Saturday at home against KC, based on what second-place Minnesota does on Friday against Toronto. If the Twins win on Friday, the earliest Cleveland can clinch would be Sunday.